# Components:
→ Truffle Center
01 - 7 oz high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped
02 - 3.4 fl oz heavy cream
03 - 1 oz unsalted butter
04 - 1/3 cup freeze-dried strawberries, finely crushed
05 - 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
06 - Pinch of sea salt
→ Coating & Decoration
07 - 7 oz dark chocolate, melted for coating
08 - 2 tbsp freeze-dried strawberries, finely crushed
09 - Edible gold flakes for garnish
# Method:
01 - Place the 7 oz chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl
02 - In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream and butter over medium heat until just simmering, without allowing it to boil
03 - Pour the hot cream mixture over the chocolate, let sit for 2 minutes, then stir gently until smooth and fully melted
04 - Stir in the crushed freeze-dried strawberries, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt until fully combined
05 - Cover and refrigerate the mixture for 1 to 2 hours until firm enough to scoop
06 - Using a melon baller or small spoon, scoop out portions and roll into 1-inch balls, placing each on a parchment-lined tray
07 - Freeze the truffles for 15 minutes to firm up before coating
08 - Melt the remaining 7 oz chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water using a double boiler method, or microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring until smooth
09 - Dip each truffle in the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off before returning to the tray
10 - Roll some truffles in the extra crushed freeze-dried strawberries for a fruity finish
11 - Place truffles back on the tray and immediately garnish each with a touch of edible gold flakes
12 - Let the truffles set at room temperature or refrigerate for 15 minutes to harden the chocolate coating